PHOENIX — The Tonto National Forest has announced it will implement restrictions on the types of shooting targets that will be allowed beginning Monday, Nov. 20.

In an effort to reduce the amount of trash being left behind by recreational target shooters, only the following types of shooting targets will be allowed on the forest:Cardboard, and/or cardboard targets with reusable frames (excluding wooden pallets), which are removed from the site after shooting.Paper, and/or paper targets with reusable frames (excluding wooden pallets), which are removed from the site after shooting.Reactive targets designed to move or bounce along the ground when hit, are made of non-metallic materials and removed from the site after shooting.Self-healing targets, which are removed from the site after shooting.Metal targets specifically made for firearms. These targets are designed to swing, spin or fall down when struck and are removed from the site after shooting.Biodegradable clay targets. “Over the last seven years, volunteer groups who organize and assist the forest with clean-up events have collected 192 tons of trash at these shooting sites,” said Neil Bosworth, forest supervisor. “We’re grateful for volunteers’ efforts, but all visitors should keep in mind that littering on forest land is prohibited and is a punishable offense.

“We want to keep areas open for target shooting. Target shooters can help by removing their targets and trash, including spent shell casings. This benefits the forest by protecting its resources and also fosters a positive image toward target shooting.”